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The St Albans based Farriers CC took part in what is believed to be the first ever international cricket game involving a pub based cricket team, when they took on the Estonian National Cricket XI during a two day tour to Tallinn recently. The trip was organised by the Harpenden based Baltic travel specialists ‘Baltic Adventures’ who provided pre match entertainment with a Go Cart Challenge on the Saturday of the tour.

The game was held at the Tallinn Hippodroom on Sunday 15th Estonia won the toss and opted to bat. Estonia started quite solidly, although an early breakthrough opportunity went begging, when a gentle catch in the slips was missed by Justin Azzopaadi.. The honour of the first Farriers international wicket went to Brian Kitson following an athletic catch by Paul Lavin at mid-wicket. Estonia kept the scoreboard ticking along until a tactical bowling change brought on James Hepworth, narrowly missing out on a hat trick in his first over.

As Estonia started to pile on the runs, the Farriers were beginning to lament the loss to injury of their captain and opening bowler, Steve Bedford to a broken leg. The Estonian tail scored well, ending up with a final score from their overs of 175-9. In reply, The Farriers showed grit and determination as the opening partnership of Gregory and Lees stood firm against some tight Estonian bowling. A couple of quick wickets by the Estonians brought together Davies and Kitson, who quickly developed a strong partnership. This partnership built a good base for the Farriers run chase with Davies moving on to 75 not out. The tight Estonian bowling held Farriers back to a creditable but ultimately unsuccessful 154 for 3.

Following the match the Estonian hosts invited Farriers to take part in their Ice Cricket tournament, an invite that has already been accepted by the Farriers team. Thanks go to Jason Barry at the Estonian Cricket Association for his organisation, development of local cricket and to his team for playing in the true spirit of the game.